$1500 is a significant amount to spend on a camera, especially for beginners, but it’s the point where cameras start offering excellent performance. At this price, you can expect powerful yet user-friendly autofocus, easier learning for photography, and even some advanced options.
The key choice is between a full-frame camera, which offers the best image quality but requires expensive, bulky lenses, or an APS-C or Micro Four Thirds camera, which balances price, size, and features. Full-frame cameras at this price will be basic models, while an APS-C camera will offer more features for the same cost.
After extensive testing, here are our top picks in this price range:
Our Picks :
Canon EOS R8:
The Canon EOS R8 is an impressive compact full-frame mirrorless camera, offering the performance and image quality of the EOS R6 II at a much lower price.
With a comfortable grip and twin dials for easy control, the R8 is user-friendly, though more advanced users may prefer the R6 II for additional buttons. Its autofocus is exceptional, with simple subject tracking and detection, though the lack of an AF joystick means you’ll rely on the touchscreen or recomposing.
The R8 captures stunning 4K video up to 60p, but without in-body stabilization, you’ll need a stabilized lens or tripod for smooth footage. Photos are sharp with excellent high ISO performance, noise reduction, and Canon’s signature color. While it offers 40 fps burst mode, rolling shutter distortion limits its action shots.
For a lower price, the R8 delivers high-quality images and many features found in Canon’s more expensive models, though it sacrifices battery life, viewfinder resolution, and in-body stabilization. The RF mount is newer, so check lens options, but you can also use EF DSLR lenses with an adapter.
Sony Alpha A6700:
The Sony a6700 is a top-tier APS-C mirrorless camera with a 26MP image-stabilized BSI CMOS sensor, offering excellent features for both photos and videos.
With its thumb-and-forefinger dial interface, slightly larger body, and fully articulating display, the a6700 provides more control than Sony’s cheaper models. While it lacks an AF joystick, its autofocus system leads the class in subject detection and tracking, even at 11 fps.
The a6700 delivers stunning photo quality, with vibrant JPEG colors and solid noise performance. In video, it shoots detailed 4K up to 60p and 4K/120p with a slight crop. Its autofocus is perfect for both video creators and vloggers.
With outstanding photo and video performance, best-in-class autofocus, and a wide range of lenses, the a6700 is an excellent choice for enthusiasts.
